How French vs. American Women Approach Lingerie
A bra is an everyday staple for American women, but there is something interesting (and totally different) about the way French women approach lingerie. According to Allison Beale of Journelle, American women see lingerie as a means of support and coverage, while the fashion-forward French showcase their undergarments as part of their look.
Beale tells Cup of Jo, "There is definitely a difference between American and French approaches to lingerie. We talk about this constantly around here. Most American women are not as bold in showing off their lingerie. There’s a basic understanding here—maybe it was a lesson we all learned from our mothers and grandmothers?—that bras are for support and coverage, not to be seen. A nude bra, the American staple, showcases your blouse. A white bra, which European women often wear, showcases your whole outfit, bra included."
It's an interesting point to bring up, seeing as the French way of doing things is always trending in the fashion world. Could this be the new lingerie norm moving forward? Only time will tell. In the meantime, check out our neutral-colored bra picks below.
Who's your beauty icon?
Bianca Jagger
Who are your 5 favorite people to follow on Instagram?
@lallo25 @dilokritbarose @beautyisboring_ @condenasttraveler @thefatjewish
What's the beauty essential you can’t live without?
My Foreo Luna
What's your desert island album?
Continuum, John Mayer
What's your favorite Byrdie.com story?
-
French Women Are Wearing Socks With These Classic Shoe Styles This Spring
Chic as always.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
19 Things a French Girl Would Buy From & Other Stories' Sitewide 25% Off Sale
Say oui.
By Allyson Payer
-
French and Italian Women Always Wear This Pretty Top With Jeans in the Spring
Easy outfits ahead.
By Ana Escalante
-
New Season, New French Girl–Inspired Looks: Here's What Our Editors Are Wearing
Sponsor Content Created With Longchamp
By Michaela Bushkin
-
Here's How French Women Are Styling Their Jeans Right Now
Take note.
By Courtney Falsey
-
French Women Always Wear This Jeans-and-Flats Outfit Formula
Easy as un, deux, trois.
By Drew Elovitz
-
I Went to France and Saw Everyone Wearing These 5 Basics on the Streets of Paris
Effortless and chic.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
French Girls Laugh Every Time Americans Wear These 3 Things
Intrigued?
By Lauren Eggertsen